What are my options after GCSEs or National 5s?
After GCSEs or National 5s, you could continue studying subjects you like, take vocational qualifications, an apprenticeship, or work or volunteer and study part-time.
Cambridge Pre-Us
Facts about Pre-U: who they are for, subjects, what's involved in taking one, and assessment and grades.
Subjects
There are 26 principal subjects available. Each is a two year course with exams at the end, either resulting in a certificate or a diploma. You can take up to four Pre-U subjects, which can be combined with other qualifications.
English
- Literature in English
Mathematics
- Mathematics
- Further mathematics
Humanities
- Classical heritage
- Geography
- History
- Philosophy and theology
- Global perspectives and research
Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Languages
- Classical Greek
- French
- German
- Italian
- Latin
- Mandarin Chinese
- Russian
- Spanish
The arts
- Art and design
- Art history
- Drama and theatre
- Music
Social sciences
- Business and management
- Comparative government and politics
- Economics
- Psychology
How to complete the Cambridge Pre-U diploma
- Take any three principal subjects (or a combination of A levels and principal subjects) alongside global perspectives and research (GPR).
- The GPR involves preparing a research report – an extended piece of writing based on your own reading and research on your chosen topic.
- The diploma is routed in subject specialism, so you have to choose from five themes – ethics, economics, environment, technology, and politics and culture.
Assessment and grades
Assessment happens at the end of programme.
The Cambridge Pre-U principal subjects have three grade bands – distinction (1), merit (2), and pass (3). These relate to the six A level grades A* to E. There is also a distinction 1 grade which is above the A* grade at A level.
The full Cambridge Pre-U diploma mark is based on the total scores for three principal subjects, or A levels and the GPR.
Taking Pre-Us this year?
Ofqual's student guide gives you information about this year’s arrangements and explains what support is in place when you're taking exams and assessments.
Thinking about university?
Check out uni course entry requirements now, to see how the subjects and qualifications you choose now will affect the courses open to you later.